River Ridge CDD replaces landscaper, approves irrigation repairs and opts for temporary aeration power

The River Ridge Community Development District board on Nov. 19 voted to change its landscape maintenance vendor, approve irrigation repairs and take a temporary approach to a proposed lake‑aeration relocation.

District Manager Cleo Adams recommended terminating Laz’s Lawn Service, citing poor performance, and engaging GulfScapes Landscape Maintenance Services. The board approved GulfScapes’ proposal of $58,500, which exceeds the current $45,000 budget by $13,000; members discussed using withheld payments from Laz’s Lawn and other unassigned funds to offset the difference. The motion to engage GulfScapes and authorize immediate termination of Laz’s contract passed with all in favor.

District Engineer Charlie Krebs presented a revised scope for the Seaside & Master Drainage Project and additional work from Irrigation Concepts: $4,002.50 to repair damaged wiring and roughly $1,300 each to raise seven to eight irrigation heads. On motion by Mr. Blumenthal, seconded by Chair Bob Schultz, the board approved an Irrigation Concepts change order not to exceed $15,000.

Regarding Lake E1‑C aeration, staff presented a revised Bentley Electric proposal extending electrical work and Premier Lakes’ one‑time work order. After budget discussion, the board approved installing a 'zombie box' (power at the existing location) in the amount of $3,098 to defer relocation costs, with Mr. Mountford and Mr. Blumenthal recording dissenting votes; the motion passed 3–2.

Staff said the drainage project is expected to begin in two to three weeks and will present further repair estimates and proposals at upcoming meetings.